There is a difference between optimism and positivity, or at least the kind of positivity that tries to pretend that bad things never happen, or never happen to good people. I am an optimist. I read something recently that helped me clarify what that looks like for me. It's a bit like "It'll be … [Read more...] about Optimism in the face of uncertainty
Unpacking “busy”: the importance of being proactive instead of reactive
In a conversation with a long-term client recently I had an Aha! moment. Every one of my clients is busy. Working with me, doesn't necessarily make you less busy. Working with me can make you feel less stressed and make the busy feel a lot different. What is "busy"? Busy can mean a couple of … [Read more...] about Unpacking “busy”: the importance of being proactive instead of reactive
What an academic career looks like
There are a lot of different ways to have an academic career. Your academic career is affected by both your own values and desires, and by forces beyond your control. Although a lot of academic career advice suggests that there is a clear path to success, there are lots of reasons you may not end up … [Read more...] about What an academic career looks like
Saying no, FOMO, and being strategic about research
I saw a short thread on Twitter reflecting on taking advice to say no a lot. Before starting my lectureship, my mentors told me very clearly to say no to as many things as possible (except unmissable opportunities). It has been hard to break the habit of nearly always saying yes to writing, … [Read more...] about Saying no, FOMO, and being strategic about research
Be an amateur
I’ve been thinking about the term amateur. I’m particularly drawn to the origin — “French, from Italian amatore from Latin amator lover”. I note that prior to the 19th century, usage is merely: “A person who is fond of something; a person who has a taste for something”. If you think about … [Read more...] about Be an amateur
